A MAN appeared twice in the dock at Dumbarton Sheriff Court last week – as two different people.

On Wednesday, John William Smith was called up from the custody cells to court one and affirmed he was the 21-year-old when asked by the court clerk.

His defence solicitor, Jonathan Paul, then spoke about the possible benefit of obtaining a psychiatric report and for bail. Sheriff William Gallacher continued the case until 2pm for a possible bail address to be confirmed.

But after noon, when custody cases were heard, the same person was brought up as Colin Sloss to astonished faces in the court.
Sheriff Gallacher asked him to confirm his name, to which he replied: “Colin Sloss.”

“Who were you 45 minutes ago?” asked the sheriff.

Mr Sloss said he was “confused” earlier.

His solicitor confirmed the person in the dock was indeed Mr Sloss.

John Smith, of O’Hare, appeared in court over breaching bail conditions.

Colin Sloss, 29, of Broom Place, Bridge of Weir, pleaded not guilty to charges of driving without due care or attention and to being concerned in the supply of diamorphine.

Trial was set for October 24 for Mr Sloss and Sheriff Gallacher added: “I hope not to see you again today.”